News, writing and advising for social good

Weave your message into all fundraising communications

In Glengarry Glen Ross, a movie based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning play about real-estate agents, a highly successful salesman played by Alec Baldwin bullies the sales staff, telling them the key to success is “ABC” — always be closing.

Despite the shady nature of the business the movie depicts, and the meanness of Baldwin’s character, the message he delivers is one that, with a slight tweak, nonprofits need to take seriously. ABC — always be communicating.

The job of raising money consumes nonprofits and has grown increasingly difficult in a tough economy and highly competitive charitable marketplace.

Compounding the challenge they face, nonprofits are falling down on the job by failing to use every contact with donors and prospective donors as an opportunity to tell their story.

Whether in a thank-you note, an email message, a newsletter, an investment update on donors’ charitable funds, an annual report, an unexpected encounter, or any other chance to communicate, your nonprofit should be delivering a clear, concise message about the difference you make in the lives of people and places you serve.

If you want to raise money, you should always be telling your story.

Want help?

Philanthropy North Carolina is a consulting practice that provides writing and strategic communications support for nonprofits, foundations, colleges and universities, and others working for social good.

To find out more about hiring Philanthropy North Carolina to work with your organization to improve your communications, contact Todd Cohen at 919.272.2051 or toddcohen49@gmail.com.

Stories that inspire

Good stories about doing good can help raise awareness, show impact, and inspire support.
Philanthropy North Carolina, the consulting practice of Todd Cohen, works with nonprofits to create those stories.
Contact Todd at 919.272.2051 or toddcohen49@gmail.com.